By Ryan Kelly –

For many of us, patience does not come easily. We live in a world of instant results, quick fixes, and constant motion, yet God often calls us to wait. Waiting can feel uncomfortable or even frustrating, but it is in the waiting that our faith is stretched and our character refined. When we find ourselves growing weary, we must remember that patience is not passive; it is an active trust in God’s perfect timing and purpose for our lives.

The Lord often tests our patience not to punish us, but to strengthen us. Every delay, every unanswered prayer, and every long road is an opportunity to deepen our reliance on Him. Just as gold is refined in fire, our faith is refined through perseverance. James reminds us, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:4). God uses the seasons of waiting to mold us into people of endurance, humility, and faith.

Patience also reveals the condition of our hearts. When we rush ahead of God, we risk missing the lessons He is trying to teach us in the moment. But when we slow down and trust His process, we find peace even in uncertainty. As Romans 12:12 encourages, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” This kind of patience does not come from human willpower; it flows from a surrendered heart that believes God truly knows best.

So this week, if you feel your patience running thin, take a breath and remember that God is working even when you cannot see it. Every trial, delay, and interruption can be a divine opportunity to grow. Ask the Lord to give you His peace in the waiting and His strength to persevere with grace. The more we learn to rest in His timing, the more we will see that patience is not a burden, it is a blessing.